Over the past few months, a couple of friends have approached me seeking advice on job offers they had received. They were curious whether accepting the offer as presented would be the way to go or if negotiating for better terms would be advisable. I thoroughly enjoy receiving these inquiries and assisting individuals in such situations because, much like my friends, they often possess more negotiating power than they realize.
In today’s competitive job market, landing a job offer is certainly a major accomplishment. However, it is easy to be tempted to accept the first offer that comes your way, especially if you’ve been searching for a while, as my two friends had. Rushing into accepting the initial offer might not always be the best decision for your long-term career growth and satisfaction. As I advised my friends, there’s always some “wiggle room”, and one should explore that before consummating the deal.
It is a known fact that today, most employers expect candidates to negotiate their salary and benefits package. This not only shows that you have courage/spunk, something that every company looks for, but most importantly, it shows that you know your worth. By accepting the first offer outright, you may be leaving money and other perks on the table that could significantly improve your financial and professional well-being.
In addition, accepting the first job offer without considering other options could lead to feelings of regret or dissatisfaction down the line. I think my marketing professor called that “cognitive dissonance” (or something like that). You might later realize that the position isn’t the best fit for you or that there are better opportunities available elsewhere. Therefore, making a hasty decision could result in having to go through the job search process again sooner than anticipated.
If you are interviewing elsewhere, chances are you had other “irons in the fire”. So, taking the time to weigh your options and evaluate multiple job offers demonstrates that you value yourself and your skills. It also sends a message to potential employers that you’re a desirable candidate who is weighing other options. This can positively impact your confidence during negotiations and throughout your professional journey.
Besides, a little gamesmanship is ok, if you know how far you can take it.
It is true that receiving a job offer is undoubtedly exciting. However, it’s essential to resist the urge to accept the first offer without weighing all factors. By taking the time to explore your options, negotiate effectively, and assess your long-term career objectives, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your professional aspirations and maximizes your potential for success.
Good luck! And congrats!
(By the way, in both instances, both of my friends successfully negotiated a higher salary).